In this episode of the Self Selecting Podcast, I sit down with IFBB Pro Stefanie Roth to discuss the realities of performance-enhancing drug (PED) use, the mindset and strategy behind building a pro physique, and the physical, mental, and hormonal consequences women face as they advance in the sport. Stefanie shares her full journey—from bikini to figure, early PED use, and the hard lessons learned from chasing size while balancing her nursing career and personal identity.

This episode is a must-listen for female competitors, coaches, and anyone who wants a brutally honest look at the risk-reward equation in female bodybuilding.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 04:36] - Intro & Stefanie’s background: Nursing, coaching, and transition from bikini to figure

- [04:36 – 07:37] - Off-season muscle building & the myth of “growing into a show”

- [07:37 – 10:24] - PED use during prep vs. surplus & when to introduce compounds

- [10:24 – 13:14] - First cycle strategy, low dosing, and avoiding unnecessary escalation

- [13:14 – 15:34] - Compound switching myths & sourcing from clinics vs. underground labs

- [15:34 – 19:13] - Dosage mistakes, testosterone vs. Anavar, and early side effects

- [19:13 – 23:00] - Irreversible side effects & redefining femininity in bodybuilding

- [23:00 – 27:14] - Navigating regret, coaching boundaries, and client education

- [27:14 – 31:06] - Balancing physique goals with health and side effect management

- [31:06 – 34:06] - Stefanie’s drug-free tools for growth & glute-building insights

- [34:06 – 38:17] - Glute training breakdown: tempo, execution, and programming

- [38:17 – 42:54] - Tracking off-season progress: visuals, digestion, strength

- [42:54 – 46:53] - Alcohol, inconsistency, and PEDs: performance consequences

- [46:53 – 51:10] - Coaching ethics, data accuracy, and knowing when to say no

- [51:10 – 01:06:06] - Long-term vision, setting boundaries, and empowering women in fitness

Links & Resources:

Follow Stefanie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_therealdonutqueen_/

Work With Stefanie: https://www.teamraw.net/

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